The World Health Organization (WHO) has intensified its international response to a hantavirus outbreak linked to the Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius, after eight cases and three deaths raised concerns over the spread of the rare Andes virus strain, which can be transmitted between humans through close contact. ALSO READ: Hantavirus: South Africa confirms cases Health authorities are now racing to trace exposures and monitor passengers across multiple countries as investigations into the source of the outbreak continue. ALSO READ: Hantavirus: Rare rodent-borne virus linked to severe disease In its latest update issued on May 9, WHO said six of the eight cases have now been confirmed as infections caused by the Andes virus, a strain of hantavirus known for its rare ability to spread between people through close contact. Four patients are currently hospitalised and receiving treatment, while one previously suspected case was ruled out after laboratory tests returned negative for the virus. The UN health agency said the outbreak is not the start of a pandemic like Covid-19 six years ago, because this hantavirus strain spreads through close, intimate contact. But given the incubation period of this disease - which can be up to six weeks - it is possible more cases may be reported, the WHO said. Health authorities are continuing investigations to determine where the initial exposure occurred. Efforts remain focused on tracing the travel history of the first reported case and identifying possible points of contact that may have contributed to the outbreak. WHO has deployed an expert onboard the ship, alongside a specialist from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, to support passengers, crew members, and ship operators as health monitoring and response measures continue throughout the voyage. The agency said it also shared technical guidance with countries affected by the incident, including protocols for case investigations, safe disembarkation procedures for passengers and crew, and monitoring measures for returning travellers. International contact tracing efforts are also ongoing. An adult male who disembarked in Tristan da Cunha on April 14 remains in stable condition and is being isolated as a probable case pending laboratory confirmation. In South Africa, authorities have traced passengers who shared a flight from Saint Helena with one confirmed case. Of the 75 contacts identified, 42 have so far been traced and placed under monitoring. WHO said countries linked to the outbreak are maintaining close coordination as they monitor returning passengers and identified contacts. The agency added that early detection of suspected infections, prompt isolation of patients, and strict infection prevention measures remain critical to limiting further spread, particularly in healthcare settings and confined environments such as ships. WHO also noted that current evidence does not support routine laboratory testing or quarantine for people who have been exposed but are not showing symptoms.
